Lake Washington School District and Union Reach Contract Agreement

The Lake Washington School District has successfully negotiated a tentative contract agreement with its union employees, effectively averting a strike that was scheduled for November 20, 2023. This agreement comes after months of discussions between the district and the Lake Washington Education Support Professionals (LWESP), which represents various support staff, including office professionals, nurses, and account technicians.

Since August 31, 2023, LWESP members have been working without a formal contract. The union emphasized that key priorities for its members included a wage increase of more than 2.5% to address the rising cost of living, restoration of health room office staffing, and sick leave parity with teachers. These demands reflect the ongoing concerns among educators regarding compensation and working conditions.

Union members will gather on November 20 at 16:30 for a ratification vote on the new agreement. Details of the tentative contract will remain confidential until all members have had the opportunity to review and discuss its contents.

LWESP President Lydia Wheeler expressed pride in the negotiations, stating, “We’re proud to share that LWESP has reached a tentative agreement with the school district — an important step forward for the dedicated professionals who keep our schools running every day.” She further highlighted the essential role of union members in maintaining the functionality of schools, noting, “From health rooms to front offices to central offices, our members are the backbone of our school communities.”

Wheeler acknowledged the collective effort that contributed to the agreement, thanking members, labor partners, and the broader community for their solidarity and support. “Your voices and advocacy made this possible, and together we’re building stronger schools for everyone,” she added.

The Lake Washington School District, located in east King County, serves over 30,000 students across its 56 schools, making it the second-largest school district in Washington state, following Seattle Public Schools. As discussions continue, the district has been contacted for further comments regarding the agreement.

This development marks a significant step in addressing the concerns of educators in Lake Washington, with potential implications for how the district navigates future negotiations and maintains its commitment to supporting both staff and students.